Hernandez Calls on Governor Not to Succumb to Anti-Immigrant Rhetoric of Far Right

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, D-Cicero, issued the following statement after Gov. Rauner’s office began to be flooded with anti-immigrant messages from the far right in response to the announcement that he will be signing Senate Bill 31, the Trust Act, on August 28:

“With everything currently going on, it is disappointing to see how people are reacting to the Trust Act as a result of misinformation being pushed by the far right. This legislation is supported by business leaders and law enforcement groups across the state. To use the governor’s own words, the Trust Act is a ‘very reasonable’ attempt to ensure law enforcement can focus on local policing rather than on federal immigration policies. It will not only protect immigrant families who are here raising children and contributing to our state’s economy, but it will cultivate trust between these communities and local law enforcement, increasing public safety in communities across Illinois.

“Courageous leadership will be required to ensure that all people be treated equally, fairly, and above all, humanely because Donald Trump lacks the moral leadership to lead our diverse nation. So I call on Governor Rauner to stand up to the hateful fringe of our society and to sign this monumental legislation into law.”

State Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez is a member of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus and represents the 24th District, which includes Cicero, Little Village, Berwyn, Brookfield, Riverside, and Stickney.